For many children in Hancock County, a countdown will begin soon that leads to a favorite holiday: Christmas. But how do you know it is getting close to Christmas time? Besides the change in the seasons, are there symbols you can look for around your house or school and in shops and windows? 

What are some of your favorite signs that Christmas is approaching? A tree decorated in lights? Candy canes as treats in school? Pictures of Santa sliding down a chimney with a bag of toys? Each one of these symbols has a historical meaning that we can trace back in time to learn more about how those who came before us celebrated this time of year. 

It just wouldn’t be Christmas without a tree, would it? Evergreen trees have become one of the most beloved symbols of Christmas time. But how did they get into our homes? 

In Pre-Christian times, Romans and other civilizations used evergreens to symbolize life and endurance, since they stayed green throughout the dark winter months. Some cultures took to decorating trees in the forests with candles, symbolizing a return of the light. Today, Christmas trees represent hope and joy, family memories and a time of year when many Christian families celebrate the birth of Jesus. 

Santa Claus goes by many names throughout the world, including Father Christmas and St. Nicholas (or St. Nick for short). It is believed that St. Nicholas was a 4th-century Christian bishop who was known for his generosity to the poor. Today, for many families, Santa Claus represents the joy of giving and generosity of spirit we associate with the holiday season. 

You couldn’t have Santa without reindeer, right? Like evergreen trees, reindeer symbolize endurance and strength because of their ability to survive harsh winters in the arctic. For many cultures who also lived in these harsh conditions and relied on these animals for transportation, reindeer also symbolized a safe journey home. Reindeer became associated with Santa through folklore and storytelling, like in the poem “Twas the Night Before Christmas,” where they were said to be pulling a sleigh filled with toys. 

This sweet, minty Christmas treat shows up everywhere during the holiday season. But did you know that it was originally created by a minister in Germany a long time ago, who gave candy canes to the children in church in order to keep them quiet? The shape of the candy cane represents a shepherd’s crook. The red stripes represent the sacrifices Jesus made and the white symbolizes his purity. 

In the coming weeks, when you and your family begin to decorate for Christmas, you will know the stories behind many of our most popular holiday symbols!